Celebrating National Reading Month with the Unveiling of Our New NICU Little Library

In recognition of National Reading Month, our NICU team gathered in March for a ribbon‑cutting ceremony to unveil a new Little Library generously donated by Saul’s Light. Filled with brand‑new children’s books, the library provides families with opportunities for comfort, connection, and early developmental support during their time in the NICU. 

Partnership With Purpose 

Saul’s Light is a Louisiana‑based nonprofit dedicated to supporting NICU and bereaved families across the state through compassionate care and comprehensive resources. Their mission to advance equity in healthcare aligns closely with our own commitment to ensuring that every family has access to the support they need. 

The plaque displayed above the Little Library highlights the intention behind this gift: 

“Saul’s Light is a local charity dedicated to supporting and meeting the unique needs of neonatal families. During a newborn’s time in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU), critical brain development is occurring, including the development of the pathways that control language skills. By reading to their babies, parents are not only bonding with them and reducing some of the stress of being in the NICU, but they’re also aiding in their children’s brain development.” 

During the ceremony, President and CEO Garett May expressed gratitude for the partnership and the ongoing dedication of our NICU staff. “This Little Library represents moments of connection during a time when families need them most,” said Garett May. “We are grateful to Saul’s Light for helping us offer this meaningful resource, which supports parents emotionally while our teams care for their babies medically. It reflects our continued commitment to compassionate, family‑centered care throughout the NICU experience.” 

Supporting Families Through Reading 

The Little Library is designed to be simple and accessible. Families may speak with their baby’s nurse to determine when bedside reading is appropriate. Parents are welcome to take one book per week, and there is no expectation to return it. Each book becomes a keepsake and a small source of comfort during their NICU journey. 

Continuing the Effort 

To ensure the library remains stocked, we will hold a staff book drive later this month. Team members are encouraged to donate new children’s books of various reading levels. These contributions help us continue providing families with moments of connection during an otherwise challenging time. 

A Shared Commitment to Family‑Centered Care 

The ribbon‑cutting ceremony honored the caregivers, partners, and leaders who helped make this project possible. With the support of Saul’s Light and the dedication of our NICU team, the Little Library will provide families with meaningful opportunities to bond, find comfort, and engage in their baby’s early development.